Frequently Asked Questions
There are thousands of options for web developers including freelance designers and large design firms. The results can range from amateur brochure ware to a world-class web presence. Costs can range from virtually free to millions of dollars. How can you determine who should create your web application?
The frequently asked questions below will help you see through the smoke and mirrors of the web development industry. It will arm you with the information you need to separate inefficient, inexperienced "designers" from the rest of the crowd.
May I see examples of your work?
Our Answer: Omni Web Logix develops a case study for each client. We have the case studies and examples of the work displayed on our website. References are also furnished upon request.
Never hire a web developer without seeing some of the other sites they've created. This is a sure-fire way of telling whether you'll get your money's worth from them.
What is your process for creating a website?
Our Answer: We use a proven web design methodology created by the Yale University Center for Advanced Instructional Media.
This question is important not only to know what their process is, but to see if they even have one. A good process for creating a web site will include planning, design, development, testing and promotion.
What graphic software do you use?
Our Answer: For graphic design, we use Adobe Photoshop and Macromedia Fireworks. For layout, we use Adobe Illustrator and Macromedia Freehand.
Look for companies that use Adobe graphics software such as Photoshop and Illustrator, or something comparable such as Macromedia Fireworks.
What development software do you use?
Our Answer: Macromedia Dreamweaver is the primary web-authoring tool used. Macromedia Flash is used to design interactive web applications.
Web developers usually have two options when programming a web site -- they can write the code themselves or use a web authoring program, many of which you've probably heard of. Programs such as Macromedia Dreamweaver can be used to create excellent web sites, but they are often relied upon as crutches for quasi-professionals who sometimes don't know how to program basic HTML. Avoid anyone who uses lesser-known software unless they can provide quality examples of their work.
What programming languages do you use?
Our Answer: Omni Web Logix has a staff of developers who were trained as software engineers and are experienced with developing custom software. When designing custom software, we develop code using JavaScript, PHP, PERL, HTML, and CGI.
This is a great question to weed out designers who don't know how to create anything more than a nice-looking, static web site. Look for developers who know more than just HTML -- most should be well versed in a scripting language such as PHP, ASP or ColdFusion. Older technologies such as CGI/Perl are not necessarily bad, but if used exclusively this can indicate that the developer is not familiar with the most recent trends and capabilities of the Internet.
How do you handle changes in the schedule?
Our Answer: A formal schedule is submitted before Omni Web Logix begins work on any project. All schedule changes are communicated to the client immediately. We design to the initial requirements to minimize scope creep. All changes to the design will require client approval and a sign-off of the new schedule.
Changes in the scope of a project, as well as the design and functionality of a site, are bound to occur. Make sure it is determined ahead of time what will happen if revisions must be made, for example whether you pay for the changes or if certain modifications will be made at no additional charge. Another issue to discuss is how ongoing maintenance will be done -- you will almost definitely have to pay for future enhancements and updates to the site, but some companies do things differently than others.
Do you provide web hosting?
Our Answer: Yes. We have an exclusive partnership with Yahoo! Web hosting that allows us to provide web hosting at affordable prices. We also can establish a web hosting account with a company of your choice.
Although some firms provide web hosting in-house, most individual developers and many development companies do not. In this case, they will often set up a hosting account with another company and have that company bill you directly. Beware of any developer that does not give you a choice regarding hosting -- usually it's easier if the development company provides hosting, but you do have a choice, especially if the hosting fees seem a bit high. (Note that your hosting options will depend on the technology required to build your site, but don't believe anyone that tells you that you only have one option.)
Do you provide domain name registration and domain name transfers?
Our Answer: A complimentary domain name registration is provided when using Omni Web Logix partners. If another web host is chosen, we will research the most affordable registration costs for your situation. Full ownership of the domain name is given to you at the time of registration.
Most developers will gladly register a domain name on your behalf. After all, every web site has to have an address, so it's a necessity for any business. Make sure that the developer registers the domain under your company's name, so that you are the owner of the name and not the developer.
Who performs future edits and maintenance on websites and web applications?
Our Answer: Omni Web Logix can perform maintenance on the site for a nominal fee or you can make future edits to content yourself. A complimentary design tool (including documentation) is provided with each web package. You can also edit your site directly using FTP access. We can support any alternative solutions you prefer. Take a look at our content management systems if you wish to manage the content in-house.
Beware of developers who do not specify a maintenance plan. The arrangement for maintenance should be outlined during the proposal phase.
Are you local?
Our Answer: We are located in Albany, CA and most of our clients are in the San Francisco Bay Area. Many clients like to meet face to face but we also work with many clients virtually (all telephone and digital communications). We are available to travel when the project requires it. We notify our clients if any portion of the project is outsourced.
There is a certain level of comfort when choosing a development firm in your local area. Researching the reputation of the company is much easier and face-to-face meetings are possible. Ask if all development work is done in-house. Some smaller companies outsource their projects to freelance designers or other firms when they are unable to handle the workload. Other companies outsource to development houses in foreign countries such as India. Make sure you know who is doing what at the beginning of the project.
How many years have you been in the website development/graphic design industry?
Our Answer: Omni Web Logix was founded in May 2005. The developers have over 7 years on web development, graphic design, and software development experience.
An obvious but essential question that should be asked of any company that you contract with. Always ask for examples of work and references.